Ballymartin pitch funding welcomed

Sinn Féin representatives Sean Doran and Caitríona Ruane have welcomed the allocation of funding by Sport NI to assist Ballymartin GAC in the upgrade of their playing and training facilities.

Speaking following a visit to the Mournes club South Down MLA Caitríona Ruane stated, “It is great to see an investment by Sport NI for the upgrade of the facilities at Ballymartin GAC.

“This clubs’ ambition to improve and develop has been blighted in the past by illegal dumping on their grounds and this money will go a long way to improving Ballymartin’s facilities which I know is a badly needed commodity for the clubs members.

“I understand it is hoped that the necessary work will be completed around the autumn time. This will allow underage players, who have been forced to play away from the ground to return once again to their home turf,” she added.

Her party colleague Sean Doran said the money being provided was a refreshing lift for the community in the Mournes. “This funding allocation has completely brightened the spirits of not only those involved in Ballymartin GAC itself but the wider community in the Mournes.

“There was wide ranging hope around the community that the club would get the help they needed to make improvements at the club and everyone is in acknowledgement of how well deserved this funding is.

He added, “Ballymartin GAC provide an irreplaceable service to the community and the young people whom are involved with it and it is only right that their contribution to the area is acknowledged with the allocation of this much needed funding.”